Heartfelt tributes to retired Mayo teacher, Mary Neary

The death of retired national school teacher Mary Neary (neé Devaney), Rathbawn Road, Castlebar, is deeply mourned by her many former pupils and the local community.

Mary passed away in the tender care of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice, Castlebar in the early hours of May 23, her 77th birthday.

A native of Crillaune, Ross, she was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Michael Devaney.

She is sadly missed by many but particularly her heartbroken husband, Michael, daughters, Michelle, Audrey and Aisling, son Aidan (U.S.), grandchildren and her brothers John (Derby) and Paddy (Castlebar).

Mary was known for her warm smile and friendly manner. She had legions of great friends.

One lifelong close friend Julie Loftus described Mary as “a wonderful lady full of laughter and devilment."

Julie continued: “Many the happy outings we had together. May her lovely spirit fly over all those miles and remember the jokes, the craic and the fun that we had”.

Jack O’Donnell, a former pupil of Mary’s at St. Patrick’s Boys National School, Castlebar, described her as “a really fantastic teacher who left a deep and lasting impression on me in my time in St. Patrick’s. She was always kind and interested in each of us individually."

Mary began her teaching career at Roosky N.S. (Charlestown area) in the 1960s.

She later moved to Partry N.S. before her final transfer to St. Patrick’s B.N.S., Castlebar, where she was a staff member for over 30 years.

One of her annual tasks in St. Patrick’s was to tutor and prepared the school band for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in the county town.

An enthusiastic golfer in her younger years, Mary was a former Lady President of Balla Golf Club.

Sympathising with Mary’s family following her death, the club announced that as a mark of respect to “a valued member” and “great supporter” the club will remain closed this Friday (May 28) until 2 p.m. while her funeral is in progress.

Remains will repose at Coady’s Funeral Home on Friday morning from 10 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. followed by removal for funeral Mass at 12 noon in the Church of the Holy Rosary.

Mary will be laid to rest afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.

Due to the HSE and government guidelines the funeral at all stages will be private for family only.